This package includes more than 60 zoning code amendments as part of the Regulatory Improvement Code Amendment Package 5 (RICAP 5), part of the Regulatory Improvement Workplan (RIW). For more about the RIW and a complete description of the amendments in RICAP 5, see the Regulatory Improvement page.

Highlights of RICAP 5 include amendments regarding:

Green energy production, green building technology, and resource conservation. There are several amendments that relate to stormwater collection (cisterns, eco-roofs, roof-gardens), solar energy systems, wind energy systems, and individual, district, or utility scale alternative energy systems. Currently, the Zoning Code either does not address, is ambiguous, or even discourages many of these technologies. The amendments focused on removing existing regulatory barriers, establishing standards such as height and setback standards where appropriate, and clarifying ambiguous language or policy.

Bike Parking for Multi-Dwelling or Mixed-Use Development. The amendments both increased the number of required long-term bike parking spaces required — from .25 spaces per unit to 1.5 spaces (Central City) and 1.1 spaces (elsewhere) — and strengthened the location requirements of long-term bike parking.

Courtyard Housing. The amendments resolved some regulatory conflicts that resulted in design barriers for many Courtyard Housing projects. The removal of these barriers will allow more sites to be effectively utilized for this emerging housing type.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The amendments allow for larger ADUs relative to the size of the main house. This will allow ADUs to be built next to smaller homes. ADUs can provide another housing option both to accommodate growth and allow people the income and space necessary to age in place.

Existing Lots in the R5 Zone. The amendments further clarify when existing small lots can be developed in the R5 zone. Small lot infill can be a more affordable housing option, but concerns over compatibility continue to be an issue. These amendments attempt to balance both important concerns.